Sophie Ryder is one of the leading sculptors working in Britain today. Her work is an amalgamation of multiple forms: animal and human; miniature and monumental; domestic and wild; transparent and opaque. It encompasses fact and fiction – part-autobiographical, part-mythology – and straddles two very different worlds.

Monumental brings the outside in and allows for a conversation between scale, site and sculpture. Miniature maquettes sit alongside statuesque bronzes and creatures constructed from wire; drawings and models show the process from idea to finished work. Ryder’s work is monumental in stature, but also lends itself to a more abstract understanding of the term. It bears a history, a past, commemorating both Ryder’s physical and philosophical input into the work. It is in this sense that the fragility of the work shines through: a monument to its own construction.

ARTIST TALK: MONUMENTAL by SOPHIE RYDER

WEDNESDAY 12 JUNE

6.30pm

£5

Sophie Ryder joins us on the first day of her exhibition at the RWA to discuss her work and career as one of the leading sculptors working in Britain today. Booking in advance is essential.